Power system for skateboards

ABSTRACT

In one or more arrangements, a powered system for skateboards is presented which has a base plate, a drive unit, a wheel assembly, and straps. In one arrangement, the system is connected to a skateboard utilizing straps such that the system may be easily attached to and removed from the skateboard. In one arrangement, the system has a single, centrally located wheel which causes the front wheels of the skateboard to be lifted off the ground. In this arrangement, the single wheel is curved in order to allow for turning of the skateboard when utilizing the system. In one arrangement, the wheel is caused to rotate by a motor and a battery used to provide electricity to motor.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional patent applicationSer. No. 63/348,148, filed Jun. 2, 2022, and entitled “POWER SYSTEM FORSKATEBOARDS,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to skateboards. More specifically and withoutlimitation, this disclosure relates to a self-contained power system fora skateboard which is attachable to the skateboard by straps.

Overview of the Disclosure

Skateboards have been used recreationally by individuals for many years.Recently, powered skateboards have become common. These poweredskateboards can be used for transportation over longer distances. Youcan purchase powered skateboards and you can purchase power systems forskateboards in order to make a non-powered skateboard into a poweredskateboard. Power systems which turn non-powered skateboards intopowered skateboards are designed to be securely attached to the board ina manner which is not easily removable. Additionally, these powersystems often occupy space on top of the deck of the skateboard whichrestricts movement of the individual using the skateboard. Finally,given the configuration and space occupied by these power systems, powersystems are not ideal for recreational use, such as use of a skateboardat skateparks.

Therefore, for all the reasons stated above, and the reasons statedbelow, there is a need in the art for an improved power system forskateboards which are capable of being easily attached to and detachedfrom a skateboard in order to use the skateboard for transportation andfor recreation. Thus, it is a primary objective of the disclosure toprovide a power system for skateboards that improves upon the state ofthe art.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is safe to operate.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is easy to attach and detach from a skateboard.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is relatively friendly to use.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which can be attached and detached from a skateboard quicklyand efficiently.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is easy to operate.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is relatively cost friendly to manufacture.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is relatively easy to transport.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is aesthetically appealing.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is robust.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is relatively inexpensive.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is not easily susceptible to wear and tear.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which has a long useful life.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a power system forskateboards which is efficient to use and operate.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the disclosure willbecome apparent from the specification, figures, and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one or more arrangements, a powered system for skateboards ispresented which has a base plate, a drive unit, a wheel assembly orwheel assemblies, and straps. In one arrangement, the system isconnected to a skateboard utilizing straps such that the system may beeasily attached to and removed from the skateboard. In one arrangement,the system has a single, centrally located wheel which causes the frontwheels of the skateboard to be lifted off the ground. In thisarrangement, the single wheel is curved in order to allow for turning ofthe skateboard when utilizing the system. In one arrangement, the wheelis caused to rotate by a motor and a battery used to provide electricityto motor. In one arrangement, the system has a pair of wheels powered byhub motors. In this arrangement, the wheels and hub motors are attachedto the system through a rotatable truck to allow for the turning of theskateboard when utilizing the system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows an elevated right rear view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system attached but without the deck straps secured.

FIG. 2 shows a right elevation view of a skateboard with a power system,in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the powersystem attached and secured with truck straps but without the deckstraps shown.

FIG. 3 shows a front elevation view of a skateboard with a power system,in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the powersystem attached showing the drive wheel extending below the wheels ofthe front truck.

FIG. 4 shows an elevated right rear view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system in an exploded view.

FIG. 5 shows a right elevation view of a skateboard with a power system,in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the powersystem in an exploded view.

FIG. 6 shows a front elevation view of a skateboard with a power system,in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the powersystem in an exploded view.

FIG. 7 shows an elevated right rear view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system attached and with the deck straps secured.

FIG. 8 shows a right elevation view of a skateboard with a power system,in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the powersystem attached and secured with the straps removed from the view forconvenience.

FIG. 9 shows a front elevation view of a skateboard with a power system,in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the powersystem attached and secured with the straps removed from the view forconvenience.

FIG. 10 shows another elevated right rear view of a skateboard with apower system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the viewshowing the power system in an exploded view highlighting the drivecomponents.

FIG. 11 shows another right elevation view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system in an exploded view highlighting the drive components.

FIG. 12 shows another front elevation view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system in an exploded view highlighting the drive components.

FIG. 13 shows a schematic view of the control assembly and its wired orwireless connections to the remote control and drive units, inaccordance with one or more arrangements.

FIG. 14 shows an elevated right rear view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system attached and the deck straps secured.

FIG. 15 shows a right elevation view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system attached and secured with truck straps but without thedeck straps shown for convenience.

FIG. 16 shows a front elevation view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system attached showing the drive wheels extending below thewheels of the front truck.

FIG. 17 shows an elevated right rear view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system in an exploded view.

FIG. 18 shows a right elevation view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system in an exploded view.

FIG. 19 shows a front elevation view of a skateboard with a powersystem, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showingthe power system in an exploded view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In the following detailed description of the embodiments, reference ismade to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in whichis shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which thedisclosure may be practiced. The embodiments of the present disclosuredescribed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit thedisclosure to the precise forms in the following detailed description.Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilledin the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices ofthe present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in theart that various changes in form and details may be made withoutdeparting from the principles and scope of the invention. It is intendedto cover various modifications and similar arrangements and procedures,and the scope of the appended claims therefore should be accorded thebroadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications andsimilar arrangements and procedures. For instance, although aspects andfeatures may be illustrated in or described with reference to certainfigures or embodiments, it will be appreciated that features from onefigure or embodiment may be combined with features of another figure orembodiment even though the combination is not explicitly shown orexplicitly described as a combination. In the depicted embodiments, likereference numbers refer to like elements throughout the variousdrawings.

It should be understood that any advantages and/or improvementsdiscussed herein may not be provided by various disclosed embodiments,or implementations thereof. The contemplated embodiments are not solimited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodimentswhich provide such advantages or improvements. Similarly, it should beunderstood that various embodiments may not address all or any objectsof the disclosure or objects of the invention that may be describedherein. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should notbe interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which address suchobjects of the disclosure or invention. Furthermore, although somedisclosed embodiments may be described relative to specific materials,embodiments are not limited to the specific materials or apparatuses butonly to their specific characteristics and capabilities and othermaterials and apparatuses can be substituted as is well understood bythose skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure.

It is to be understood that the terms such as “left, right, top, bottom,front, back, side, height, length, width, upper, lower, interior,exterior, inner, outer, and the like as may be used herein, merelydescribe points of reference and do not limit the present invention toany particular orientation or configuration.

As used herein, “and/or” includes all combinations of one or more of theassociated listed items, such that “A and/or B” includes “A but not B,”“B but not A,” and “A as well as B,” unless it is clearly indicated thatonly a single item, subgroup of items, or all items are present. The useof “etc.” is defined as “et cetera” and indicates the inclusion of allother elements belonging to the same group of the preceding items, inany “and/or” combination(s).

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended toinclude both the singular and plural forms, unless the languageexplicitly indicates otherwise. Indefinite articles like “a” and “an”introduce or refer to any modified term, both previously-introduced andnot, while definite articles like “the” refer to a samepreviously-introduced term; as such, it is understood that “a” or “an”modify items that are permitted to be previously-introduced or new,while definite articles modify an item that is the same as immediatelypreviously presented. It will be further understood that the terms“comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when usedherein, specify the presence of stated features, characteristics, steps,operations, elements, and/or components, but do not themselves precludethe presence or addition of one or more other features, characteristics,steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, unlessexpressly indicated otherwise. For example, if an embodiment of a systemis described at comprising an article, it is understood the system isnot limited to a single instance of the article unless expresslyindicated otherwise, even if elsewhere another embodiment of the systemis described as comprising a plurality of articles.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being“connected,” “coupled,” “mated,” “attached,” “fixed,” etc. to anotherelement, it can be directly connected to the other element, and/orintervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element isreferred to as being “directly connected,” “directly coupled,” “directlyengaged” etc. to another element, there are no intervening elementspresent. Other words used to describe the relationship between elementsshould be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus“directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” “engaged”versus “directly engaged,” etc.). Similarly, a term such as“operatively”, such as when used as “operatively connected” or“operatively engaged” is to be interpreted as connected or engaged,respectively, in any manner that facilitates operation, which mayinclude being directly connected, indirectly connected, electronicallyconnected, wirelessly connected or connected by any other manner, methodor means that facilitates desired operation. Similarly, a term such as“communicatively connected” includes all variations of informationexchange and routing between two electronic devices, includingintermediary devices, networks, etc., connected wirelessly or not.Similarly, “connected” or other similar language particularly forelectronic components is intended to mean connected by any means, eitherdirectly or indirectly, wired and/or wirelessly, such that electricityand/or information may be transmitted between the components.

It will be understood that, although the ordinal terms “first,”“second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, theseelements should not be limited to any order by these terms unlessspecifically stated as such. These terms are used only to distinguishone element from another; where there are “second” or higher ordinals,there merely must be a number of elements, without necessarily anydifference or other relationship. For example, a first element could betermed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could betermed a first element, without departing from the scope of exampleembodiments or methods.

Similarly, the structures and operations discussed herein may occur outof the order described and/or noted in the figures. For example, twooperations and/or figures shown in succession may in fact be executedconcurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order,depending upon the functionality/acts involved. Similarly, individualoperations within example methods described below may be executedrepetitively, individually or sequentially, to provide looping or otherseries of operations aside from single operations described below. Itshould be presumed that any embodiment or method having features andfunctionality described below, in any workable combination, falls withinthe scope of example embodiments.

As used herein, various disclosed embodiments may be primarily describedin the context of skateboards. However, the embodiments are not solimited. It is appreciated that the embodiments may be adapted for usein other applications which may be improved by the disclosed structures,arrangements and/or methods. The system is merely shown and described asbeing used in the context of skateboards for ease of description and asone of countless examples.

Skateboard

With reference to the figures, a skateboard 200 is presented. Skateboard200 may be any skateboard, such as, by way of example and notlimitation, street skateboards, mini skateboards, longboards, and anyother type of skateboard. In the arrangement shown, as one example,skateboard 200 has a top side 202, a bottom side 204, opposing front andback ends 206 (or simply “ends 206”), and opposing left and right sides208 (or simply “sides 208”). In the arrangement shown, as one example,skateboard 200 is a street skateboard having a deck 210, trucks 212, andwheels 214, among other components as described herein. While skateboard200 has been described according to the arrangement shown, as oneexample, any design, arrangement, or configuration of a skateboard maybe used and is hereby contemplated for use as skateboard 200.

Deck: In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 includesdeck 210. Deck 210 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andare configured to provide a surface upon which a rider stands whenriding skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example, deck210 has a top surface 216, a bottom surface 218, opposing front and backends 220 (or simply “ends 220”), and opposing left and right sides 222(or simply “sides 222”).

In the arrangement shown as one example, deck 210 may be formed of asingle, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such asmachining or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Deck 210may be formed of any number of non-metallic materials such as a woodenmaterial, fiberglass, plastic, a composite material, or any othernon-metallic material that is customary for use on skateboards.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from top side 202,deck 210 is generally in the geometric shape of an obround, however deck210 may be formed of any other shape or configuration, including arectangle, an oval, or any other shape. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the front and back ends 220 of deck 210 each form a generallysemi-circular end 220 and sides 222 extending from front end 220 to backend 220 in approximate parallel planar spaced relation to each side 222.In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a left orright side 208, deck 210 is curved up at each end 220 and extendsbetween each end 220 with a generally convex curvature, such that thetop surface 216 of deck 210 is higher in the middle than it is near ends220.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, deck 210 includes holes 224.Holes 224 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and areconfigured to facilitate connection of trucks 212 to deck 210. In thearrangement shown, as one example, holes 224 extend from the top surface216 of deck 210 through to bottom surface 218 of deck 210. In thearrangement shown, as one example, holes 224 are generally circular inshape, however holes 224 may be formed of any other shape orconfiguration, including an ovular shape, a square shape, a triangularshape, or any other shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example,holes 224 are configured to receive fasteners 232 of trucks 212. In anarrangement, as an example, holes 224 may be countersunk from the topsurface 216 such that the top of each head of fasteners 232 remainsbelow top surface 216 of the deck 210.

While deck 210 has been primarily described with reference to one ormore of the arrangements shown, as one example, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that any other configuration of deck 210 may beused in order to provide a surface upon which a rider stands when ridingskateboard 200.

Trucks: In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200includes trucks 212. Trucks 212 are formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and are configured to connect deck 210 to wheels 214. In thearrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 includes a pair oftrucks 212, however any other number of trucks may be used depending onthe number of wheels 214 necessary for the particular skateboard 200. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, trucks 212 include a base plate226, a hanger 228, and an axle 230.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, truck 212 includes a baseplate 226. Base plate 226 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to connect to trucks 212 to bottom surface 218of deck 210. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 226 isformed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturingprocess such as machining, casting, molding, extruding, or the like toform a unitary and monolithic member. Trucks 212 may be formed of anynumber of metallic materials and any composite thereof or,alternatively, trucks 212 may be formed of any number of non-metallicmaterials such as a wooden material, fiberglass, plastic, or any othernon-metallic materials or composites thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 226 is shaped inorder to conform to bottom surface 218 of deck 210 in order to tightlyand closely engage with bottom surface 218 of deck 210. In thearrangement shown, as one example, bottom surface 218 includes openings(not shown) which receive fasteners 232 of trucks 212, which also extendthrough holes 224 of deck 210. When fasteners 232 of trucks 212 areextending through the openings (not shown) of trucks 212 and throughholes 224 of deck 210, base plate 226 is operably connected to deck 210.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 226 includes a pin(not shown). The pin of base plate 226 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to connect hanger 228 to base plate226. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the pin of base plate 226is a generally cylindrical pin which extends downward from the bottomsurface of base plate 226. In the arrangement shown, as one example, atthe lowest end of the pin, there is a threaded portion which isconfigured to receive at least one nut (not shown). In the arrangementshown, as one example, the hanger 228 is operably connected to the pinof base plate 226 by placing a first nut onto the threaded portion ofthe pin, the placing the pin through an opening in the hanger 228, thenplacing a second nut onto the threaded portion of the pin, therebysecurely connecting hanger 228 to the pin of base plate 226. In thisway, the pin of base plate 226 connects hanger 228 to base plate 226.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, trucks 212 include hanger 228.Hanger 228 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to connect to base plate 226 and to axle 230. In thearrangement shown, as one example, hanger 228 is a generally elongatedmember which extends from a first side to a second side. In thearrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a front or back end206 of skateboard 200, hanger 228 may be generally triangular in shape,with the elongated section 234 of hanger 228 extending from near oneopposing side 208 to near the other opposing side 208 and extendingupward to a generally narrower portion which connects to the pin of baseplate 226. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the narrowerportion of hanger 228 near base plate 226 includes an opening whichreceives the pin of base plate 226 and secured to the pin using the nutsof base plate 226 as described herein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the elongated section 234 ofhanger 228, which extends from near one opposing side 208 to near theother opposing side 208 includes a hollow center (not shown) extendingall the way through the elongated section 234. The hollow center of theelongated section 234 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to receive axle 230 within the hollow center. In thisway, axle 230 extends complete through hanger 228, thereby facilitatingconnection with both axle 230 and base plate 226.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, trucks 212 include axle 230.Axle 230 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to facilitate connection of wheels 214 to trucks 212. In thearrangement shown, as one example, axle 230 is a generally elongated andcylindrical member. In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle 230extends from near one opposing side 208 of skateboard 200 to near theother opposing side 208 of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, asone example, axle 230 extends a distance slightly longer than theelongated section 234 of hanger 228. In this way, at least a portion ofeach side of axle 230 extends outward from the elongated section 234when extended through the hollow center of the elongated section 234 ofhanger 228 such that at least one wheel 214 can fit over axle 230 oneach opposing side 208 of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, asone example, axle 230 includes at least one nut on each side of axle 230and this nut is configured to securely connect wheels 214 to axles 230.In this way, axle 230 facilitates the connection of wheels 214 to trucks212.

While trucks 212 have been primarily described with reference to one ormore of the arrangements shown, as one example, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that any other configuration of trucks 212 maybe used in order to connect deck 210 to wheels 214.

Wheels: In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200includes wheels 214. Wheels 214 are formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and are configured to facilitate movement of skateboard 200.In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheels 214 may be any standardor non-standard wheels used on a skateboard, including, by way ofexample and not limitation, wheels made from a non-metallic materialsuch as polyurethane. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheels214 may be formed in a manufacturing process such as molding or the liketo form a unitary and monolithic member.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheels 214 include bearings215 which are configured to facilitate rotation of wheels 214 aroundaxles 230 of trucks 212. In this way, wheels 214 are able to rotatewhile axles 230 of trucks 212 remain stationary. This allows each wheel214 of skateboard 200 to spin freely as necessary to transfer rotationalmovement of the wheels to linear movement of the axles 230 to ensureproper travel of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, there are two wheels 214 connected to each axle 230, with onewheel 214 connected on each end of axle 230. In this arrangement, thebearings 215 of wheels 214 allow each wheel on the same axle 230 to spinindependently of one another, meaning the wheels 214 may spin atdifferent rates, which allow the skateboard 200 to turn as desired.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, there are four wheels 214, oneon each end of each axle 230. That is, in the arrangement shown as oneexample, there are two wheels 214 per each truck 212 on skateboard 200,and with two wheels 214 near each opposing side 208 of skateboard 200,with one such wheel 214 near the front end 206 and the other wheel 214near the back end 206 of skateboard 200.

While wheels 214 have been described according to the arrangement shown,as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatany other configuration of wheels 214 may be used in order to facilitatemovement of skateboard 200.

Power System

With reference to the figures, a power system 10 for a skateboard (orsimply “system 10”) is presented. System 10 is formed of any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to operably connected to askateboard 200 and provide power to skateboard 200. In the arrangementshown, as one example, system 10 has a forward end 12, a rearward end14, and opposing left and right sides 16 (or simply “sides 16”). In thearrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a base plate 18, adrive unit 20, a wheel assembly 22, and straps 24, among othercomponents as described herein. While system 10 has been describedaccording to the arrangement shown, as one example, any combination orarrangement may be used and is hereby contemplated for use.

Base Plate:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes base plate18. Base plate 18 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andis configured to facilitate engagement with the skateboard 200 and withdrive unit 20. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18has a top surface 26, a bottom surface 28, a front end 30, a back end31, and opposing left and right sides 32 (or simply “sides 32”). In thearrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18 includes a notch 33,compressible members 34, a curved portion 36, a first plate 38, a cover40, and a second plate 42.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18 is formed of asingle, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such asmachining, casting, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or thelike to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, base plate18 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled toone another through welding, screwing, bolting, friction fitting, or thelike. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18 may beformed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum,chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or compositethereof. Alternatively, base plate 18 may be formed of a non-metallicmaterial, such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or anyother non-metallic material and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a side 16 ofsystem 10, base plate 18 is a generally flat of planar member, with topsurface 26 extending an approximate parallel planar spaced relation tothe bottom surface 28 and in approximate perpendicular relation to frontend 30 and back end 31. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bothfirst plate 38, cover 40, and second plate 42 extend from downward frombottom surface 28 of top surface 26. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, when viewed from forward end 12 or rearward end 14, bottomsurface 28 generally planar and extends in approximate perpendicularrelation to each opposing side 16. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, when viewed from forward end 12 or rearward end 14, base plate18 includes curved portions 36 at each opposing side 16, with the curvedportions 36 extending upward from top surface 26 in a generally concavemanner.

Notch: In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18 includesa notch 33 in its front end 30. Notch 33 is formed to be any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to allow base plate 18 to fitwith any length skateboard. Skateboards come in varying lengths meaningthat the trucks 212 of skateboards are positioned at varying places.Said another way, some skateboards have trucks 212 which are positionedcloser together than in other skateboards and base plate 18 must accountfor the closer positioned trucks 212. In order to accommodate for closerpositioned trucks 212, base plate 18 includes notch 33.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, notch 33 is an open or cut-outarea which extends back a distance from the front end 30 of base plate18. In the arrangement shown, as one example, notch 33 starts near oneside 32 of base plate 18 and extends to near the opposing side 32 ofbase plate 18, more specifically, in the arrangement shown, as oneexample, near each side 32 of base plate 18, notch 33 generally beginsat or near where top surface 26 of base plate 18 meets curved portion 36of base plate 18. Without notch 33, base plate 18 may not be suitablefor use any skateboards with closely positioned trucks 212 because baseplate 18 could overlap with trucks 212. If base plate 18 were to overlapwith trucks 212, base plate 18, and therefore system 10, could not betightly and securely attached to skateboard 200. However, with notch 33,closely positioned trucks 212 on shorter skateboards 200 may fit withinnotch 33, thereby still allowing base plate 18, and system 10, to betightly and securely attached to skateboard 200, even though the overalldistance from front end 30 to back end 31 of base plate 18 may be longerthan the distance between trucks 212 of skateboard 200.

Compressible Members: In the arrangement shown, as one example, baseplate 18 includes compressible members 34. Compressible members 34 areformed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured toprovide a secure engagement between base plate 18 and the bottom surface218 of deck 210 of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, compressible members 34 are formed of a non-metallic materialwhich is able to be compressed or squished when placed in-between twoseparate members being forced together. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, compressible members 34 are formed of a non-metallic materialwhich also has a high coefficient of friction in order to ensure baseplate 18 is held securely in place when connected to base plate 18 andbottom surface 218 of deck 210 of skateboard 200. As one example,compressible members 34 are a rubber material in order to be compressedwhen base plate 18 is secured to deck 210 and also provide a surfacewith a high coefficient of friction which ensures system 10 does notshift or more around which skateboard 200 when a user is ridingskateboard 200.

Curved Portion: In the arrangement shown, as one example, compressiblemembers 34 are used to form the curved portion 36 of base plate 18.Skateboards may have decks 210 which may be curved, however thecurvature of different skateboards 200 can vary and system is configuredto connect to multiple different skateboards, therefore in one or morearrangements system 10 is configured to account for varying curvaturesin different decks 210. In order to accommodate this curvature, in thearrangement shown as one example base plate 18 includes curved portions36. Curved portions 36 are formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and are configured to ensure a proper, tight fit against thebottom surface 218 of deck 210 of a skateboard 200. In order toaccommodate all possible shapes, curvatures, and configurations of adeck 210, in the arrangement shown as one example, the curved portions36 are formed of compressible members 34. That is, in order tofacilitate for all different shapes, styles, and degrees of curvature ofdeck 210, the curved portions 36 are formed of compressible members 34so that the curved portions 36 can compress to conform to the curvatureof the bottom surface 218 of deck 210.

First Plate: In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18includes a set of first plates 38. First plates 38 are formed of anysize, shape, and design and are configured to facilitate alignment ofaxle 112 of wheel 108. In the arrangement shown, as one example, firstplates 38 are generally flat and planar member which extend downward adistance from the bottom surface 28 of base plate 18. In the arrangementshown, as one example, when viewed from a side 16, first plates 38extend downward and taper inward as they extend further downward untilthey stop at their bottom edges. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, there is one first plate 38 near each side 16 of system 10,that is there is one a first plate 38 near the left side 16 of system 10and a first plate 38 near the right side 16 of system 10.

First plates 38 may be pieces which are connected to base plate 18through a process such as welding, adhesion, screwing, bolting, or thelike, or first plates 38 may be included in base plate 18 when baseplate 18 is manufactured. If manufactured separately and then connectedto base plate 18, first plates 38 are single, unitary members that areformed in a manufacturing process such as machining, casting, additivemanufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, first plates 38 may be formedprimarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, orany other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.Alternatively, first plates 38 may be formed of a non-metallic material,such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any othernon-metallic material and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, each first plate 38 includes arecess 46. Recess 46 is formed to be any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is facilitate the passing of axle 112 of wheel 108 throughfirst plate 38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, recess 46 isgenerally ovular in shape, extending upward from the bottom edge offirst plate 38 a distance and ending in a generally semi-circularmanner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, recess 46 is generallyshaped to receive a cylindrical shaft therein, however recess 46 may beformed of any suitable size, shape, and design necessary for the type ofshaft therein, therefore recess 46 may be formed of a generally square,rectangular, triangular, or any other shape opening. In the arrangementshown, as one example, recess 46 extends upward from the bottom edge offirst plate 38 a distance such that the opening 54 of cover 40 isaligned with at least a portion of recess 46.

Cover: In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18 includesa cover 40 for each first plate 38. Cover 40 is formed of any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to at least partially surroundfirst plate 38 and facilitate the secured engagement of axle 112 ofwheel 108 to base plate 18. Cover 40 is a piece which is manufacturedseparately from base plate 18 and is attached to first plate 38 viafasteners such as screws or bolts, thereby becoming a part of base plate18. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cover 40 is formed of anon-metallic material, such as a plastic material, a fiberglassmaterial, or any other non-metallic material or composite thereof.Alternatively, cover 40 may be formed of any metallic material. In thearrangement shown, as one example, cover 40 is formed of a single,unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such asextrusion, molding, additive manufacturing, or the like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, cover 40 is shaped similar tofirst plate 38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cover 40extends downward from bottom surface 28 of base plate 18 and, whenviewed from a side 16, cover 40 includes sides 48 which generallyextends straight downward from bottom surface 28 before angling andtapering inward until it meets at a rounded bottom point 50. In thearrangement shown, as one example, sides 48 extend past the back side 52of cover 40. In this way, the sides 48 extend around first plate 38 inorder to at least partially surround first plate 38.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, cover 40 includes an opening54. Opening 54 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to facilitate the passing of axle 112 of wheel 108 throughcover 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening 54 isgenerally circular and extends through cover 40 from its front side 53to its back side 52. In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening54 is generally shaped to receive a cylindrical shaft therein, howeveropening 54 may be formed of any suitable size, shape, and designnecessary for the type of shaft therein, therefore opening 54 may beformed of a generally square, rectangular, triangular, or any othershape opening. In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening 54 islocated above the middle of the rounded bottom point 50 of cover 40 andis located above the rounded bottom point 50 a distance such that whencover 40 is connected to first plate 38, opening 54 is aligned with atleast a portion of recess 46 of first plate 38. In this way, axle 112 ofwheel 108 may pass through both first plate 38 and cover 40 by passingthrough recess 46 of first plate 38 and through opening 54 of cover 40.In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening 54 is fully containedwithin cover 40 such when axle 112 of wheel 108 is passed throughopening 54 of cover 40, wheel assembly 22 is securely engaged with cover40 and, by its secured engagement cover 40, wheel assembly 22 is alsooperably connected to base plate 18.

Second Plate: In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 18includes a second plate 42. Second plate 42 is formed of any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate securedattachment of motor 66 of drive unit 20 to base plate 18. In thearrangement shown, as one example, second plate 42 is a generally flatand planar member which extends downward a distance from the bottomsurface 28 of base plate 18. In the arrangement shown, as one example,when viewed from a side 16, second plate 42 is generally rectangular inshape, with sides 56 which generally straight downward and in parallelplanar spaced relation to one another, however the bottom edge 58 ofsecond plate 42 has a slight, generally convex curvature as it extendsfrom one side 56 to the other side 56.

Second plate 42 may be a piece which is connected to base plate 18through a process such as welding, adhesion, screwing, bolting, or thelike, or second plate 42 may be included in base plate 18 when baseplate 18 is manufactured. If manufactured separately and then connectedto base plate 18, second plate 42 is a single, unitary member that isformed in a manufacturing process such as machining, casting, additivemanufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, second plate 42 may be formedprimarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, orany other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.Alternatively, second plate 42 may be formed of a non-metallic material,such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any othernon-metallic material and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, second plate 42 includes acentrally located opening 60. Opening 60 is formed to be any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate the passing ofthe drive shaft 86 of motor 66 of drive unit 20 through second plate 42,thereby facilitating secured attachment of motor 66 of drive unit 20 tosecond plate 42. In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening 60 isgenerally in the geometric shape of an obround, having a top and bottomedge which extends generally straight and in parallel planar spacedrelation to one another, and having ends which are generallysemi-circular in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example,opening 60 is sized and shaped to receive a generally circular driveshaft 86 of motor 66, however opening 60 is not so limited and may besized, shaped, and designed to receive any other shape of drive shaft,therefore opening 60 may be generally square, rectangular, circular,triangular, or any other shape. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, opening 60 is located centrally on second plate 42 and extendsthrough second plate 42 from a front side to a back side of second plate42.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when drive shaft 86 of motor66 is passed through opening 60 of second plate 42, drive shaft 86 isvertically contained in opening 60 and motor 66 is on the inside ofsecond plate 42. Once drive shaft 86 is passed through opening 60, motorpulley 70 is placed onto drive shaft 86 on the outer side of secondplate 42. With motor pulley 70 on the outer side of second plate 42 andmotor 66 on the inner side of second plate 42, drive shaft 86 isvertically and horizontally securely held within opening 60. In thisway, opening facilitates the passing of the drive shaft 86 of motor 66of drive unit 20 through second plate 42 and, thereby, the securedattachment of motor 66 of drive unit 20 to second plate 42.

While base plate 18 has been primarily described with reference to oneor more arrangements shown, as one example, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that any other configuration of base plate 18may be used in order to facilitate engagement with the skateboard 200and with drive unit 20.

Drive Unit:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes drive unit20. Drive unit 20 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andis configured to power skateboard 200. More specifically, in thearrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 20 is configured tooperably connect to wheel assembly 22 and provide power to wheelassembly 22 which facilitates the movement of skateboard 200. In thearrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 20 includes a battery 62,a battery housing 64, a motor 66 with a control assembly 68, a motorpulley 70, and a belt 72, among other components as described herein.

Battery: In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 20includes control battery 62. Battery 62 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to provide the energy to operatemotor 66, which in turn facilitates the rotation of wheel assembly 22.Battery 62 may be any type of battery or energy source, so long as itmay be used in system in order to provide energy to operate motor 66.

Battery Housing: In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery 62 iscontained within battery housing 64. Battery housing 64 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to attach to baseplate 18 and hold battery 62 therein. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, battery housing includes end walls 74, side walls 76, a bottomwall 78, and arms 82.

In the arrangement shown as one example, battery housing 64 is formed ofa single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process suchas molding, machining, additive manufacturing, or the like to form aunitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, battery housing 64 may beformed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one anotherthrough adhesion, screwing, or the like. In the arrangement shown, asone example, battery housing 64 is formed primarily of a non-metallicmaterial such as a hard plastic material, however any other type ofnon-metallic material may be used to form battery housing 64.Alternatively, battery housing 64 may be formed of a metallic materialsuch as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material,alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery housing 64 has endwalls 74 at its front and back ends which extend vertically and inapproximate parallel planar spaced relation to one another. In thearrangement shown, as one example, battery housing 64 includes sidewalls 76 which extend a distance vertically and in approximate parallelplanar spaced relation to one another and in approximate perpendicularplanar relation to end walls 74. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, battery housing 64 includes a bottom wall 78 which connects toeach of the end walls 74 and side walls 76 at their lowest edge andprovides a bottom surface upon which battery 62 rests when containedwithin battery housing 64. In the arrangement shown, bottom wall 78 is agenerally rectangular planar member which extends longitudinally betweeneach end wall 74 and laterally between each side wall 76. With bottomwall 78 meeting each of the end walls 74 and side walls 76 at theirlowest edges, a hollow center 80 is formed within battery housing 64.This hollow center 80 provides the space within which battery 62 iscontained.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery housing 64 includesarms 82. Arms 82 are configured to connect battery housing 64 to baseplate 18. In the arrangement shown, as one example, two arms 82 extendupward a distance from each side wall 76, with one arm 82 positionednear the front end wall 74 and one arm 82 positioned near the back endwall 74. At the end of arm 82, is a protrusion 84 which is configured tofacilitate connection of battery housing 64 to base plate 18. In thearrangement shown, as one example, protrusion 84 extends outward fromthe top of each arm 82 and is configured to engage with base plate 18.With protrusion 84 engaged with base plate 18, battery housing 64 isessentially hung from base plate 18 in a secure manner. With batteryhousing 64 securely hung from base plate 18, battery housing 64 andbattery 62 are operably connected to base plate 18.

Motor: In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 20 includesmotor 66. Motor 66 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andis configured to provide power to wheel assembly 22 in order tofacilitate powered movement of skateboard 200. Motor 66 may be anydevice that converts electrical energy to movement, or more specificallyto rotational energy. In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor 66includes control assembly 68 and a drive shaft 86.

Control Assembly: In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit20 includes control assembly 68. Control assembly 68 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to control theoperation of motor 66 and the speed at which skateboard 200 istraveling. In the arrangement shown, as one example, control assembly 68includes at least one microprocessor 90, a memory 92, instructions 94,an antenna 96, and a receiver and/or transceiver 98. In the arrangementshown, as an example, the control assembly 68 is attached to the baseplate 18. In other arrangements, the control assembly may be integrallyattached to the motor 66.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, control assembly 68 iselectrically connected, either through wired connections or wirelessly,to battery 62 and motor 66. In the arrangement shown, as one example,control assembly 68 receives inputs from a user utilizing a remotecontroller 88 in the user's possession. Control assembly 68 receivesthese inputs and the microprocessor 90 processes these inputs andoutputs commands according to instructions 94 stored in memory 92.Memory 92 may be included as part of microprocessor 90 or operablyconnected to microprocessor 90. Receiver and/or transceiver 98 isconnected to microprocessor 90. A receiver is used if one waycommunication is utilized, whereas a transceiver is used if two-waycommunication is utilized. Receiver/transceiver 98 is connected with anantenna 96, such as a monopole antenna, a loop antenna, a fractalantenna, or any other form of an antenna. Antenna 96 receives wirelesssignals from remote controller 88, transmits these signals toreceiver/transceiver 98 which processes these signals and then transmitsthese processed signals to microprocessor 90, which processes thesesignals according to instructions 94 stored in memory 92. In thisarrangement, remote controller 88 is any form of a remote control devicethat transmits wireless signals through the air such as a conventionalremote control, a cell phone, a wireless device, an internet connecteddevice, a hard-wired device, or any other device capable of transmittingremote control signals.

Drive Shaft, Motor Pulley, and Belt: In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, motor 66 includes drive shaft 86. Drive shaft 86 is formed ofany suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to connect tomotor 66 and extend outward from motor 66 in order to transmit therotational movement of motor 66 to motor pulley 70. In the arrangementshown, as one example, drive shaft 86 is a generally cylindrical rodwhich extends outward from the side of motor 66 and connects to its endto motor pulley 70.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 20 includes motorpulley 70. Motor pulley 70 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to facilitate the transfer of rotationalmovement from motor 66 to wheel assembly 22. In the arrangement shown,as one example, motor pulley 70 is a generally circular member with amiddle section 100 and side walls 102 on each side of the middle section100. In the arrangement shown, motor pulley 70 includes an opening 104which extends through motor pulley 70 from one side wall 102 to theother side wall 102. Opening 104 is formed to be any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to receive drive shaft 86 of motor66 therein. In this way, drive shaft 86 of motor 66 extends throughopening 104, thereby connecting motor pulley 70 to motor 66.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, side walls 102 have a biggerdiameter than middle section 100 such that side walls 102 extend pastthe outer part of middle section 100. This configuration is importantbecause belt 72 is configured to extend around motor pulley 70 such thatis rests between side walls 102 which connecting to middle section 100.Belt 72 may be any type of belt which forms a loop and can be used torotate around both motor pulley 70 and wheel pulley 106 of wheelassembly 22. In the arrangement shown, as one example, middle section100 of motor pulley 70 optionally includes teeth 105 which engage belt72, although in other embodiments, the belt and the motor pulley areboth flat and use friction to impart the forces necessary for poweredmovement. In this way, when motor 66 is operated, drive shaft 86 causesmotor pulley 70 to rotate and the teeth 105 of motor pulley 70 catch andengage belt 72. When belt 72 is engaged with the teeth 105 of motorpulley 70, belt 72 is caused to rotate around with motor pulley 70. Whenbelt 72 is rotated around motor pulley 70, belt 72 causes wheel pulley106 of wheel assembly 22 to rotate as well. In this way, drive unit 20provides power and rotational movement to wheel assembly 22 whichfacilitates the powered movement of skateboard 200 through the use ofdrive shaft 86, motor pulley 70, and belt 72.

While drive unit 20 has been primarily described with reference to oneor more arrangements shown, as one example, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that any other configuration of drive unit maybe used in order to power skateboard 200, and more specifically, tooperably connect to wheel assembly 22 and provide power to wheelassembly 22 which facilitates the movement of skateboard 200.

Wheel Assembly:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes wheelassembly 22. Wheel assembly 22 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and is configured to facilitate powered movement ofskateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel assembly22 includes a wheel pulley 106, wheel 108 with bearings 110, and an axle112.

Wheel Pulley: In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel assembly22 includes a wheel pulley 106. Wheel pulley 106 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to transfer poweredmovement from motor pulley 70 to wheel 108. In the arrangement shown, asone example, belt 72 extends around wheel pulley 106, therebyfacilitating connection with motor 66. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, wheel pulley 106 includes an outer side wall 114, an inner sidewall 116, and teeth 118.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel pulley 106 is agenerally circular member which has an open center 120. In thearrangement shown, as one example, wheel pulley 106 is a generally thinmember due to open center 120 and optionally includes teeth 118 on itsouter surface, although in other embodiments the belt 72 and the wheelpulley interface may be flat and simply use friction to impart the forcenecessary for powered movement. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, teeth 118 extend outward from wheel pulley 106 and areconfigured to engage belt 72, such that when belt 72 rotates along withmotor pulley 70, belt 72 engages teeth 118 and causes wheel pulley 106to rotate as well. Outer side wall 114 of wheel pulley 106 is agenerally flat and planar surface which has a thickness equal to thethickness of wheel pulley 106. Inner side wall 116 is a generally flatand planar member which extends a distance outward from wheel pulley 106and has a thickness which is greater than the thickness of wheel pulley106. Said another way, inner side wall 116 is sized such that it extendsa distance farther out from the center of wheel pulley 106 than theoutermost part of the teeth 118 of wheel pulley 106.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, inner side wall 116 isconnected directly to the side wall 122 of wheel 108. In the arrangementshown, as one example, inner side wall 116 is connected to side wall 122of wheel 108 through fasteners such as bolts or screws, however innerside wall 116 may be connected to side wall 122 of wheel 108 through anyother means such that inner side wall 116 is securely attached to sidewall 122 of wheel 108.

Wheel: In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel assembly 22includes a wheel 108. Wheel 108 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and is configured to operably connect to motor 66 and rotatein order to facilitate the powered movement of skateboard 200. In thearrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 is a single wheel that iscentrally located between the opposing left and right sides 208 ofskateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108includes bearings 110 and an axle 112.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 is formed of anon-metallic material, such as polyurethane which is commonly used tomake skateboard wheels, however any other non-metallic material, or evenmetallic materials may be used in order to form wheel 108. In thearrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 is formed by amanufacturing process such as molding, however other processes such asmachining, additive manufacturing, or the like may be used to form wheel108.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when system 10 is connected toa skateboard 200, wheel 108 is centrally located between the opposingleft and right sides 208 and located behind the front truck 212 ofskateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 hasa diameter which is large enough that, when system 10 is connected to askateboard, the wheels 214 connected to the front truck 212 ofskateboard 200 are lifted off the ground. In this way, only the wheels214 connected to the rear truck 212 of skateboard 200 and wheel 108 ofwheel assembly 22 are resting on the ground. When the motor 66 of system10 is operated, it causes the rotation of wheel 108, which causesskateboard 200 to move forward. As skateboard 200 moves, wheel 108continues to stay in contact with the ground, as do the wheels 214connected to the rear truck 212 of skateboard 200, however the wheels214 connected to the front truck 212 of skateboard 200 still do notcontact the ground in forward motion or when minor turns are made.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 is generallycircular in shape. When viewed from forward end 12 of system 10, as oneexample, wheel 108 extends between side walls 122 and has a slightconvex curvature as it extends from one side wall 122 to the other sidewall 122. Said another way, wheel 108 has a slight curvature such thatthe middle of wheel 108 has a greater diameter than the diameter at ornear the side walls 122. This curvature is important to wheel 108because this curvature allows the user to turn the skateboard whenutilizing system 10. If wheel 108 did not have this curvature, the wheelwould not be able to effectively or easily turn, it could essentiallyonly go in a straight line. However, with this curvature of wheel 108, auser is able to lean to one side 208 of the board, as they would anormal skateboard, and the skateboard 200 utilizing system 10 will turn.As described above, the wheels 214, which are attached to the fronttruck 212 of skateboard 200 will generally not touch the ground whenmoving in a straight line or making slight turns. However, when a usermakes a sharp turn on a skateboard 200 which has system 10 attached toit, the curvature of wheel 108 will cause the front end 206 ofskateboard 200 to slope, which may cause a wheel 214 connected to thefront truck 212 to touch the ground. This is advantageous to have one ofthe wheels 214 connected to the front truck 212 of skateboard 200 totouch the ground when a sharp turn is being made while utilizing system10 because this extra contact with the ground helps provide for extrastabilization of the board during the turn. In this way, the curvatureof wheel 108 is important and advantageous for use in system 10.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the side walls 122 of wheel108 are connected to the inner side wall 116 of wheel pulley 106 asdescribed above. When wheel 108 is attached to wheel pulley 106, wheel108 is configured to rotate along with wheel pulley 106 about its centeraxis. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 includesbearings 110. Bearings 110 are formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and are configured to allow wheel 108 to rotate about axle 112while axle 112 is stationary. In the arrangement shown, as one example,bearing 110 may be a ball bearing, a roller bearing, a linear bearing, abush bearing, or any other kind of bearing, so long as wheel 108 is ableto rotate while axle 112 is stationary.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 108 includes an axle112. Axle 112 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to form the axis about which wheel 108 rotates, as well asfacilitate connection of wheel assembly 22 to base plate 18. In thearrangement shown, as one example, axle 112 is a generally circular rodwhich extends through wheel 108 along its center axis. When wheel 108rotates, its axis of rotation is colinear with the center axis of axle112, however, axle 112 does not rotate with wheel 108 because wheel 108includes bearings 110. However, axle 112 is not so limited and any othershape, size, or design may be used as axle 112.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle 112 is also configured tofacilitate connection of wheel assembly 22 to base plate 18. Asdescribed herein, axle 112 is configured to be held within recess 46 offirst plate 38 and within opening 54 of cover 40, thereby securing axle112 and wheel 108 to base plate 18. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, axle 112 is extended through the opening 54 of cover 40 andrecess 46 of first plate 38 near one side 16 of system 10. Axle 112 isthen extended through wheel 108 and bearings 110 and wheel 108 ispositioned along axle 112 such that it is centrally positioned betweenopposing left and right sides 208 of skateboard 200. Axle 112 is thenfurther extended through the recess 46 of the other first plate 38 andthrough opening 54 of the other cover 40 near the opposing side 16 ofsystem 10. Once axle 112 is placed through the openings 54 of covers 40and the recesses 46 of the first plates 38, wheel assembly 22 issecurely engaged with and connected to base plate 18.

While wheel assembly 22 has been primarily described with reference toone or more arrangements shown, as one example, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that any other configurations of wheel assembly22 may be used in order to facilitate powered movement of skateboard200.

Once wheel assembly 22 is operably connected to drive unit 20 and baseplate 18, system 10 is ready to connect to skateboard 200.

Straps:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes straps 24.Straps 24 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and areconfigured to securely connect system to skateboard 200. In thearrangement shown, as one example, straps 24 are nylon straps whichconnect via buckles 124. However, straps 24 may be formed of any othermaterial, such as polyester, plastic, polypropylene, or any othermaterial which is adjustable, pliable, and durable and can be used toattach system 10 to skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, straps 24 include buckles 124 at or near each end of straps 24and may be adjustable such that skateboards of differing sizes may beaccommodated. Buckles 124 are formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and are configured to securely attach the two ends of straps 24.In multiple arrangements, buckles 124 may be a side release buckle, acam buckle, or any other buckle or mechanism which can be used tosecurely connect the two ends of straps 24. In another arrangement,straps 24 may be elastic straps that are able to be stretched over thedeck 210 and trucks 212 of the skateboard 200.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, straps 24 extend around baseplate 18 of system 10, thereby effectively attaching to system 10. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, there are truck straps 128 anddeck straps 130. Truck straps 128 are configured to connect system 10 sotrucks 212 of skateboard 200, thereby securing system 10 in alongitudinal direction. Said another way, truck straps 128 wrap aroundfront truck 212 and rear truck 212 of skateboard 200 such that system 10is held securely and will not shift forward or rearward while system 10is connected to skateboard 200.

Similarly, in the arrangement shown, as one example, deck straps 130 areconfigured to connect system 10 to deck 210 of skateboard 200, therebysecuring system 10 in a lateral direction. Said another way, deck straps130 wrap tightly around deck 210 of skateboard 200 such that system 10is held securely and will not shift left or right while system 10 isconnected to skateboard 200. With truck straps 128 and deck straps 130wrapped around the trucks 212 and deck 210 of skateboard 200,respectively, system 10 is securely and tightly connected to skateboard200 and will not move side-to-side or forward and backward while in use.

While straps 24 have been primarily described with reference to one ormore of the arrangements shown, as one example, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that any other configuration of straps 24 maybe used in order to facilitate connection of system 10 to skateboard200.

In Operation:

System 10 may be operated by a user to travel distances easily andeffortlessly on a skateboard 200. First, a user provides a skateboard200, which will generally have a deck 210, a pair of trucks 212connected to the deck 210, and a pair of wheels 214 connected to each ofthe trucks 212. In this way, there is a front truck 212 with a pair offront wheels 214 and a rear truck 212 with a pair of rear wheels 214.The user can then attach system 10 to the skateboard 200.

In order to do so, the user will take straps 24 and wrap them aroundskateboard 200 to secure system 10 to skateboard 200. Specifically, theuser will take a truck strap 128, which is connected to system 10, andwrap it tightly around front truck 212, Once truck strap 128 is wrappedappropriately around the front truck 212, the user will use buckles 124to secure the ends of truck strap 128 together, thereby securing system10 to front truck 212. The user will then take a second truck strap 128,which is connected to system 10, and wrap it tightly around the reartruck 212. Once truck strap 128 is wrapped appropriately around the reartruck 212, the user will use buckles 124 to secure the ends of truckstrap 128 together, thereby securing system to rear truck 212. Withtruck straps 128 around both the front truck 212 and the rear truck 212,system 10 is attached to skateboard 200 such that system 10 will notmove forward or backward while in use.

Next the user will take a first deck strap 130, which is connected tosystem 10, and wrap it tightly around deck 210 of skateboard 200. Oncedeck strap 130 is wrapped appropriately around the deck 210, the userwill use buckles 124 to secure the ends of deck strap 130 together,thereby securing system 10 to deck 210. The user will repeat thisprocess with additional deck straps 130 as needed. When completed, theuser will have attached system 10 to deck 210 such that system 10 willnot shift or slide side to side while in use. Importantly, deck straps130 are generally located such that they will not get in the way of theuser utilizing deck 210 for its intended purpose. That is, deck straps130 can be placed such that they will not interfere with the feetplacement of the user riding skateboard 200. In this way, system 10provides attachment of a powered system to a skateboard withoutinhibiting the user's ability to actually use the skateboard 200, andmore specifically the deck 210, as intended.

With the truck straps 128 and deck straps 130 wrapped securely aroundskateboard 200, system 10 is ready to be used to travel a distance. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, with system 10 connected toskateboard 200, the set of rear wheels 214 are resting on the ground, asis wheel 108 of system 10, but the front wheels 214 of skateboard 200are lifted off the ground due to the size and placement of wheel 108.Specifically, wheel 108 is located a behind front truck 212 andcentrally positioned between the opposing left and right sides 208 ofskateboard 200. In this position, wheel 108 is close enough to the setof front wheels 214 and wheel 108 has a large enough diameter that wheel108 causes front wheels 214 to be lifted off the ground.

In order to move the drive unit, the user will utilize the remotecontroller 88 to send commands to control assembly 68 as describedherein. Once control assembly 68 receives the command from remotecontroller 88 to move forward, the control assembly will cause battery62 to provide electrical energy to motor 66. With electrical energyprovided to motor 66, motor 66 will begin to rotate, which will in turnrotate drive shaft 86. Drive shaft 86 is connected to motor pulley 70and when drive shaft 86 rotates, this will cause motor pulley 70 torotate. As motor pulley 70 rotates, the teeth 105 of motor pulley 70engage belt 72, which extends around motor pulley 70 at one side, torotate with motor pulley 70. At its other end, belt 72 extends aroundwheel pulley 106. As belt 72 rotates around motor pulley 70, the teeth118 of wheel pulley 106 engage belt 72 and cause wheel pulley 106 torotate as well. In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor pulley70 is half the side of wheel pulley 106, meaning that each time motorpulley 70 completes a rotation, wheel pulley 106 has completed half arotation, so motor pulley 70 rotates twice as fast as wheel pulley 106.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel pulley 106, or morespecifically the inner side wall 116 of wheel pulley 106 is connected tothe side wall 122 of wheel 108. Due to this connection, as wheel pulley106 is caused to rotate by belt 72, wheel 108 is also caused to rotateby wheel pulley 106. As wheel 108 rotates, the skateboard 200 ispropelled forward. The user can use remote controller 88 to speed up orslow down the rate of travel of skateboard 200. Because of the curvatureof wheel 108, the user can travel in a straight direction and can alsocause skateboard 200 to turn. During slight turns, the front wheels 214of skateboard 200 will continue to stay off the ground, however if asharp turn is made by the user, the front wheels 214 of skateboard 200will make contact with the ground and provide additional support andstability during the turn.

Once the user reached their destination, the user can leave system 10 onthe skateboard 200, or the user can remove system 10 from skateboard200. The user can remove system 10 from the skateboard by unhookingbuckles 124 on each of the truck straps 128 and each of the deck straps130. The user will then unwrap the deck straps 130 from around deck 210and, likewise, unwrap the truck straps 128 from both the front truck 212and the rear truck 212. The user may desire to remove system 10 fromskateboard 200 if the user has used system 10 to travel to a skate parkand wants to skate freely and perform tricks using skateboard 200. Inthis way, system 10 can be used to travel distances, which stillallowing the user to utilize skateboard 200 for more recreational orsporting use.

Alternative Arrangement

An alternative arrangement of a power system 300 for a skateboard 200 ispresented herein. Except as expressly noted below, elements of thealternative arrangement are designed and function similarly to and areinterchangeable with previous arrangements. In the alternativearrangement shown, as one example, a skateboard 200 may be anyskateboard, such as, by way of example and not limitation, streetskateboards, mini skateboards, longboards, and any other type ofskateboard. In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 hasa top side 202, a bottom side 204, opposing front and back ends 206 (orsimply “ends 206”), and opposing left and right sides 208 (or simply“sides 208”). In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200is a street skateboard having a deck 210, trucks 212, and wheels 214,among other components as described herein. While this alternativearrangement of skateboard 200 has been described according to thealternative arrangement shown, as one example, any other combination orarrangement may be used and is hereby contemplated for use.

Deck: In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 includesdeck 210. Deck 210 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andare configured to provide a surface upon which a rider stands whenriding skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example, deck210 has a top surface 216, a bottom surface 218, opposing front and backends 220 (or simply “ends 220”), and opposing left and right sides 222(or simply “sides 222”).

In the arrangement shown as one example, deck 210 may be formed of asingle, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such asmachining or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Deck 210may be formed of any number of non-metallic materials such as a woodenmaterial, fiberglass, plastic, a composite material, or any othernon-metallic material that is customary for use on skateboards.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from top side 202,deck 210 is generally in the geometric shape of an obround, however deck210 may be formed of any other shape or configuration, including arectangle, an oval, or any other shape. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the front and back ends 220 of deck 210 each form a generallysemi-circular end 220 and sides 222 extending from front end 220 to backend 220 in approximate parallel planar spaced relation to each side 222.In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a left orright side 208, deck 210 is curved up at each end 220 and extendsbetween each end 220 with a generally convex curvature, such that thetop surface 216 of deck 210 is higher in the middle than it is near ends220.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, deck 210 includes holes 224.Holes 224 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and areconfigured to facilitate connection of trucks 212 to deck 210. In thearrangement shown, as one example, holes 224 extend from the top surface216 of deck 210 through to bottom surface 218 of deck 210. In thearrangement shown, as one example, holes 224 are generally circular inshape, however holes 224 may be formed of any other shape orconfiguration, including an ovular shape, a square shape, a triangularshape, or any other shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example,holes 224 are configured to receive fasteners 232 of trucks 212. Holes224 may be countersunk from the top surface 216 such that the top ofeach head of fasteners 232 remains below the top surface 216 of the deck210.

While deck 210 has been described according to the arrangement shown, asone example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that anyother configuration of deck 210 may be used in order to provide asurface upon which a rider stands when riding skateboard 200.

Truck: In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 includestrucks 212. Trucks 212 are formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and are configured to connect deck 210 to wheels 214. In thearrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 includes a pair oftrucks 212, however any other number of trucks may be used depending onthe number of wheels 214 necessary for the particular skateboard 200. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, trucks 212 include a base plate226, a hanger 228, and an axle 230.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, truck 212 includes a baseplate 226. Base plate 226 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to connect to trucks 212 to bottom surface 218of deck 210. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 226 isformed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturingprocess such as machining, casting, molding, extruding, or the like toform a unitary and monolithic member. Trucks 212 may be formed of anynumber of metallic materials and any composite thereof or,alternatively, trucks 212 may be formed of any number of non-metallicmaterials such as a wooden material, fiberglass, plastic, or any othernon-metallic materials or composites thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 226 is shaped inorder to conform to bottom surface 218 of deck 210 in order to tightlyand closely engage with bottom surface 218 of deck 210. In thearrangement shown, as one example, bottom surface 218 includes openings(not shown) which receive fasteners 232 of trucks 212, which also extendthrough holes 224 of deck 210. When fasteners 232 of trucks 212 areextending through the openings (not shown) of trucks 212 and throughholes 224 of deck 210, base plate 226 is operably connected to deck 210.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 226 includes a pin(not shown). The pin of base plate 226 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to rotatably connect hanger 228 tobase plate 226. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the pin ofbase plate 226 is a generally cylindrical pin which extends downwardfrom the bottom surface of base plate 226. In the arrangement shown, asone example, at the lowest end of the pin, there is a threaded portionwhich is configured to receive at least one nut (not shown). In thearrangement shown, as one example, the hanger 228 is operably connectedto the pin of base plate 226 by placing a first nut onto the threadedportion of the pin, the placing the pin through an opening in the hanger228, then placing a second nut onto the threaded portion of the pin,thereby securely connecting hanger 228 to the pin of base plate 226. Inthis way, the pin of base plate 226 connects hanger 228 to base plate226.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, trucks 212 include hanger 228.Hanger 228 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to connect to base plate 226 and to axle 230. In thearrangement shown, as one example, hanger 228 is a generally elongatedmember which extends from a first side to a second side. In thearrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a front or back end206 of skateboard 200, hanger 228 may be generally triangular in shape,with the elongated section 234 of hanger 228 extending from near oneopposing side 208 to near the other opposing side 208 and extendingupward to a generally narrower portion which connects to the pin of baseplate 226. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the narrowerportion of hanger 228 near base plate 226 includes an opening whichreceives the pin of base plate 226 and secured to the pin using the nutsof base plate 226 as described herein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the elongated section 234 ofhanger 228, which extends from near one opposing side 208 to near theother opposing side 208 includes a hollow center (not shown) extendingall the way through the elongated section 234. The hollow center of theelongated section 234 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to receive axle 230 within the hollow center. In thisway, axle 230 extends complete through hanger 228, thereby facilitatingconnection with both axle 230 and base plate 226.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, trucks 212 include axle 230.Axle 230 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to facilitate connection of wheels 214 to trucks 212. In thearrangement shown, as one example, axle 230 is a generally elongated andcylindrical member. In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle 230extends from near one opposing side 208 of skateboard 200 to near theother opposing side 208 of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, asone example, axle 230 extends a distance slightly longer than theelongated section 234 of hanger 228. In this way, at least a portion ofeach side of axle 230 extends outward from the elongated section 234when extended through the hollow center of the elongated section 234 ofhanger 228 such that at least one wheel 214 can fit over axle 230 oneach opposing side 208 of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, asone example, axle 230 includes at least one nut on each side of axle 230and this nut is configured to securely connect wheels 214 to axles 230.In this way, axle 230 facilitates the connection of wheels 214 to trucks212.

While trucks 212 have been described according to the arrangement shown,as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatany other configuration of trucks 212 may be used in order to connectdeck 210 to wheels 214.

Wheels:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, skateboard 200 includes wheels214. Wheels 214 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design andare configured to facilitate movement of skateboard 200. In thearrangement shown, as one example, wheels 214 may be any standard ornon-standard wheels used on a skateboard, including, by way of exampleand not limitation, wheels made from a non-metallic material such aspolyurethane. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheels 214 maybe formed in a manufacturing process such as molding or the like to forma unitary and monolithic member.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheels 214 include bearings215 which are configured to facilitate rotation of wheels 214 aroundaxles 230 of trucks 212. In this way, wheels 214 are able to rotatewhile axles 230 of trucks 212 remain stationary. This allows each wheel214 of skateboard 200 to spin freely as necessary to transfer rotationalmovement of the wheels to linear movement of the axles to ensure propertravel of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example,there are two wheels 214 connected to each axle 230, with one wheel 214connected on each end of axle 230. In this arrangement, the bearings 215of wheels 214 allow each wheel on the same axle 230 to spinindependently of one another, meaning the wheels 214 may spin atdifferent rates, which allow the skateboard 200 to turn as desired.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, there are four wheels 214, oneon each end of each axle 230. That is, in the arrangement shown as oneexample, there are two wheels 214 per each truck 212 on skateboard 200,and with two wheels 214 near each opposing side 208 of skateboard 200,with one such wheel 214 near the front end 206 and the other wheel 214near the back end 206 of skateboard 200.

While wheels 214 have been described according to the arrangement shown,as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatany other configuration of wheels 214 may be used in order to facilitatemovement of skateboard 200.

Power System

With reference to the figures, a power system 300 for a skateboard (orsimply “system 300”) is presented. System 300 is formed of any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to operably connected to askateboard 200 and provide power to skateboard 200. In the arrangementshown, as one example, system 300 has a forward end 312, a rearward end314, and opposing left and right sides 316 (or simply “sides 316”). Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, system 300 includes a base plate318, a drive unit 320, a wheel assembly 322, and straps 24, among othercomponents as described herein. While system 300 has been describedaccording to the arrangement shown, as one example, any combination orarrangement may be used and is hereby contemplated for use.

Base Plate:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 300 includes base plate318. Base plate 318 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to facilitate engagement with the skateboard 200 andwith drive unit 320. In the arrangement shown, as one example, baseplate 318 has a top surface 326, a bottom surface 328, a front end 330,a back end 331, and opposing left and right sides 332 (or simply “sides332”). In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 318 includescompressible members 348 and a curved portion 350.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 318 is formed of asingle, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such asmachining, casting, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or thelike to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, base plate318 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled toone another through welding, screwing, bolting, friction fitting, or thelike. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 318 may beformed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum,chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or compositethereof. Alternatively, base plate 318 may be formed of a non-metallicmaterial, such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or anyother non-metallic material and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a side 316 ofsystem 300, base plate 318 is a generally flat of planar member, withtop surface 326 extending an approximate parallel planar spaced relationto the bottom surface 328 and in approximate perpendicular relation tofront end 330 and back end 331. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, when viewed from forward end 312 or rearward end 314, bottomsurface 328 is generally planar and extends in approximate perpendicularrelation to each opposing side 316. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, when viewed from forward end 312 or rearward end 314, baseplate 318 includes curved portions 350 at each opposing side 316, withthe curved portions 350 extending upward from top surface 326 in agenerally concave manner. Additionally, base plate 318 may include anotch as described in detail above to accommodate skateboards 200 ofdiffering sizes.

Compressible Members 348:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 318 includescompressible members 348. Compressible members 348 are formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and are configured to provide a secureengagement between base plate 318 and the bottom surface 218 of deck 210of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example,compressible members 348 are formed of a non-metallic material which isable to be compressed or squished when placed in-between two separatemembers being forced together. In the arrangement shown, as one example,compressible members 348 are formed of a non-metallic material whichalso has a high coefficient of friction in order to ensure base plate318 is held securely in place when connected to and bottom surface 218of deck 210 of skateboard 200. As one example, compressible members 348are a rubber material in order to be compressed when base plate 318 issecured to deck 210 and also provide a surface with a high coefficientof friction which ensures system 300 does not shift or more around whichskateboard 200 when a user is riding skateboard 200.

Curved Portion:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, compressible members 348 areused to form the curved portion 350 of base plate 318. Skateboards mayhave decks 210 which may be curved, however the curvature of differentskateboards 200 can vary and system 300 is configured to connect tomultiple different skateboards, therefore in one or more arrangementssystem 300 is configured to account for varying curvatures in differentdecks 210. In order to accommodate this curvature, in the arrangementshown as one example base plate 318 includes curved portions 350. Curvedportions 350 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and areconfigured to ensure a proper, tight fit against the bottom surface 218of deck 210 of a skateboard 200. In order to accommodate all possibleshapes, curvatures, and configurations of a deck 210, in the arrangementshown as one example, the curved portions 350 are formed of compressiblemembers 348. That is, in order to facilitate for all different shapes,styles, and degrees of curvature of deck 210, the curved portions 350are formed of compressible members 348 so that the curved portions 350can compress to conform to the curvature of the bottom surface 218 ofdeck 210.

Drive Unit:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 300 includes drive unit320. Drive unit 320 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to power skateboard 200. More specifically, in thearrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320 is configured tooperably connect to wheel assembly 322 and provide power to wheelassembly 322 which facilitates the powered movement of skateboard 200.In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320 includes abattery 62, a battery housing 64, a hub motor 366, a control assembly68, and a wheel 308, among other components as described herein.

Battery: In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320includes control battery 62. Battery 62 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to provide the energy to operate hubmotors 366, which in turn facilitates the rotation of wheel assemblies322. Battery 62 may be any type of battery or energy source, so long asit may be used in system 300 in order to provide energy to operate hubmotors 366.

Battery Housing:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery 62 is contained withinbattery housing 64. Battery housing 64 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to attach to base plate 318 and holdbattery 62 therein. In the arrangement shown, as one example, batteryhousing includes end walls 74, side walls 76, a bottom wall 78, and arms82.

In the arrangement shown as one example, battery housing 64 is formed ofa single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process suchas molding, machining, additive manufacturing, or the like to form aunitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, battery housing 64 may beformed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one anotherthrough adhesion, screwing, or the like. In the arrangement shown, asone example, battery housing 64 is formed primarily of a non-metallicmaterial such as a hard plastic material, however any other type ofnon-metallic material may be used to form battery housing 64.Alternatively, battery housing 64 may be formed of a metallic materialsuch as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material,alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery housing 64 has endwalls 74 at its front and back ends which extend vertically and inapproximate parallel planar spaced relation to one another. In thearrangement shown, as one example, battery housing 64 includes sidewalls 76 which extend a distance vertically and in approximate parallelplanar spaced relation to one another and in approximate perpendicularplanar relation to end walls 74. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, battery housing 64 includes a bottom wall 78 which connects toeach of the end walls 74 and side walls 76 at their lowest edge andprovides a bottom surface upon which battery 62 rests when containedwithin battery housing 64. In the arrangement shown, bottom wall 78 is agenerally rectangular planar member which extends longitudinally betweeneach end wall 74 and laterally between each side wall 76. With bottomwall 78 meeting each of the end walls 74 and side walls 76 at theirlowest edges, a hollow center 80 is formed within battery housing 64.This hollow center 80 provides the space within which battery 62 iscontained.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery housing 64 includesarms 82. Arms 82 are configured to connect battery housing 64 to baseplate 18. In the arrangement shown, as one example, two arms 382 extendforwardly and rearwardly a distance from each end wall 74 and generallyfit within holes 302 of downstanding flanges 304 on the base plate 318.While the holes 302 and the arms 382 are shown as round, they could beany corresponding shape such as square, triangle, or any other shape tofacilitate connection of battery housing 64 to base plate 318. With arms382 engaged with holes 302 of base plate 318, battery housing 64 isessentially hung from base plate 318 in a secure manner. With batteryhousing 64 securely hung from base plate 318, battery housing 64 andbattery 62 are operably connected to base plate 318.

Motor:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320 includes hubmotors 366. Hub motors 366 are formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and are configured to provide power to wheel assemblies 322 inorder to facilitate powered movement of skateboard 200. Hub motors 366may be any device that converts electrical energy to movement, or morespecifically to rotational movement. In the arrangement shown, two wheelassemblies 322 each include a hub motor 366 operably coupled to eachwheel 308 of each wheel assembly 322.

Control Assembly:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320 includescontrol assembly 68. Control assembly 68 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to control the operation of motor 66and the speed at which skateboard 200 is traveling. In the arrangementshown, as one example, control assembly 68 includes at least onemicroprocessor a memory 92, instructions 94, an antenna 96, and areceiver and/or transceiver 98.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, control assembly 68 iselectrically connected, either through wired connections or wirelessly,to battery 62 and wheel assemblies 322. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, control assembly 68 receives inputs from a user utilizing aremote controller 88 in the user's possession. Control assembly 68receives these inputs and the microprocessor 90 processes these inputsand outputs commands according to instructions 94 stored in memory 92.Memory 92 may be included as part of microprocessor 90 or operablyconnected to microprocessor 90. Receiver and/or transceiver 98 isconnected to microprocessor 90. A receiver is used if one waycommunication is utilized, whereas a transceiver is used if two-waycommunication is utilized. Receiver/transceiver 98 is connected with anantenna 96, such as a monopole antenna, a loop antenna, a fractalantenna, or any other form of an antenna. Antenna 96 receives wirelesssignals from remote controller 88, transmits these signals toreceiver/transceiver 98 which processes these signals and then transmitsthese processed signals to microprocessor 90, which processes thesesignals according to instructions 94 stored in memory 92. In thisarrangement, remote controller 88 is any form of a remote control devicethat transmits wireless signals through the air such as a conventionalremote control, a cell phone, a wireless device, an internet connecteddevice, a hard-wired device, or any other device capable of transmittingremote control signals.

Drive Truck:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320 includes adrive truck 306. Drive truck 306 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and are configured to connect wheel assemblies 322 to baseplate 318. In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320includes a single drive truck 306, however any other number of drivetrucks may be used depending on the number of wheel assemblies 322necessary for the particular skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown,as one example, drive truck 306 includes a base plate 310, a hanger 324,and an axle 333.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive truck 306 includes abase plate 310. Base plate 310 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and is configured to connect to drive truck 306 to bottomsurface 218 of deck 210. In the arrangement shown, as one example, baseplate 310 is formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in amanufacturing process such as machining, casting, molding, extruding, orthe like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Drive truck 306 may beformed of any number of metallic materials and any composite thereof or,alternatively, drive truck 306 may be formed of any number ofnon-metallic materials such as a wooden material, fiberglass, plastic,or any other non-metallic materials or composites thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 310 is shaped inorder to conform to bottom surface 328 of base plate 318 in order totightly and closely engage with bottom surface 328 of base plate 318. Inthe arrangement shown, the base plate 310 of the drive truck is formedintegrally with the base plate 318, although the base plate 310 of thedrive truck may be formed separately and coupled to the base plate 318by welding, fasteners, or any other method.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, base plate 310 includes a pin334. The pin 334 of base plate 310 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to connect hanger 324 to base plate310. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the pin 334 of base plate310 is a generally cylindrical pin which extends downwardly at an anglefrom the bottom surface of base plate 310 of the drive truck. In thearrangement shown, as one example, at the lowest end of the pin 334,there is a threaded portion which is configured to receive at least onenut 338. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the hanger 324 isoperably connected to the pin 334 of base plate 310 by placing a firstnut 338 onto the threaded portion of the pin 334, placing a firstbushing 336 on the pin 334, then placing the pin 334 with the firstbushing 336 through an opening 340 in the hanger 324, then placing asecond bushing 336 and washer onto pin 334 before threading a nut 338(not shown) onto the threaded portion of the pin 334, thereby securelyconnecting hanger 324 to the pin of base plate 310. In this way, the pinof base plate 310 connects hanger 324 to base plate 310. In otherarrangements, a single nut 338 is used at the end of the pin 334. Instill other arrangements, no nuts 338 are used and the pin 334 andbushing 336 are press-fit into the opening 340 of the hanger 324.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive truck 306 includes ahanger 324. hanger 324 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to connect to base plate 310 and to axle 333. In thearrangement shown, as one example, hanger 324 is a generally elongatedmember which extends from a first side to a second side. In thearrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from a front or back end206 of skateboard 200, hanger 324 may be generally triangular in shape,with the elongated section 342 of hanger 324 extending from near oneopposing side 208 to near the other opposing side 208 of the skateboardand extending upward to a generally narrower portion which connects tothe pin 334 of base plate 310. In the arrangement shown, as one example,the narrower portion of hanger 324 near base plate 310 includes anopening 340 which receives the pin 334 and bushing 336 of base plate 310and secured to the pin using the nut 338 of base plate 310 as describedherein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the elongated section 342 ofhanger 324, which extends from near one opposing side 208 to near theother opposing side 208 includes axles 333 extending from either side.In the arrangement shown, the axles 333 do not rotate but rather providea common axis from which the wheel assemblies 322 connect. The axles 333are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured toreceive the hub motors 366 of wheel assemblies 322. In this way, axles333 extend along a common axis, thereby facilitating connection withboth wheel assemblies 322 and hanger 324.

While drive truck 306 has been described according to the arrangementshown, as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the artthat any other configuration of drive truck 306 may be used in order toconnect base plate 318 to wheel assemblies 322.

Wheel Assemblies:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive unit 320 includes wheelassembly 322. Wheel assembly 322 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and is configured to facilitate powered movement ofskateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel assembly322 includes a hub motor 366 and a wheel 308.

Hub Motor:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel assembly 322 includes ahub motor 366. Hub motor 366 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to convert electrical energy from the battery62 into powered rotational movement at the wheel 308. In the arrangementshown, as one example, hub motor 366 is coupled with axle 333 of thehanger 324. In the arrangement shown, the hub motor is press fit ontothe axle 333 such that the interior portion (coupled to the stator ofthe hub motor 366) of the hub motor 366 remains stationary with the axle333 of the hanger 324. In other arrangements, the hub motor 366 isplaced over the axle 333 and secured by other means such as a fastener,a clip, or any other method. The outer portion of the hub motor 366(coupled to the rotor of the hub motor 366) rotates about the interiorportion when energized and provides the rotational movement necessaryfor powered movement of the skateboard 200. The hub motor 366 iselectrically connected to the battery 62 and is coupled to the controlassembly 68, either wired or wirelessly, and is configured to receiveenergy from the battery and signals from the control assembly 68 toselectively energize and de-energize the hub motor 366 for selectivemovement of the skateboard 200.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, hub motor 366 is generallycylindrical with a smooth outer surface. The hub motor includes a smoothouter surface that maximizes surface contact and friction with theinterior of the wheel 308 and is configured such that the wheel 308 andthe outer portion of the hub motor 366 move together. In otherarrangements, the outer surface of the hub motor 366 includesinterference protrusions that interface with corresponding protrusionsand/or indentations on the interior of the wheel 308 to ensure commonrotational movement between the outer portion of the hub motor 366 andthe wheel 308.

Wheel:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel assembly 322 includes awheel 308. Wheel 308 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to operably connect to hub motor 366 and rotate inorder to facilitate the powered movement of skateboard 200. In thearrangement shown, as one example, wheel 308 is press fit around theouter portion of hub motor 366 such that when the hub motor outerportion rotates, the wheel 308 rotates along with the outer portion ofthe hub motor 366. In other arrangements, the wheel may be securelycoupled to the hub motor 366 by other means such as fasteners, clips, orany other method.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, wheel 308 is formed of anon-metallic material, such as polyurethane which is commonly used tomake skateboard wheels, however any other non-metallic material, or evenmetallic materials may be used in order to form wheel 308. In thearrangement shown, as one example, wheel 308 is formed by amanufacturing process such as molding, however other processes such asmachining, additive manufacturing, or the like may be used to form wheel308.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when system 300 is connectedto a skateboard 200, wheels 308 are located on the opposing left andright sides 208 (and beyond in some arrangements) and located behind thefront and rear trucks 212 of skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown,as one example, wheel 308 has a diameter which is large enough that,when system 300 is connected to a skateboard, the wheels 214 connectedto the front truck 212 of skateboard 200 are lifted off the ground. Inother arrangements, the drive truck is designed and/or positioned suchthat the wheel assemblies 322 lift the wheels 214 connected to the fronttruck 212 of skateboard 200 off the ground. In this way, only the wheels214 connected to the rear truck 212 of skateboard 200 and wheels 308 ofwheel assemblies 322 are resting on the ground. When the hub motors 366of system 300 are operated, it causes the rotation of wheels 308, whichcauses skateboard 200 to move forward. As skateboard 200 moves, wheels308 continue to stay in contact with the ground, as do the wheels 214connected to the rear truck 212 of skateboard 200, however the wheels214 connected to the front truck 212 of skateboard 200 still do notcontact the ground in forward motion or when minor turns are made.

In the arrangement shown, the hanger 324 is able to rotate slightlyabout the pin 334 and bushing(s) 336. This rotation allows a user tolean the skateboard to the right and to the left and is configured toforce the drive truck 306 to turn with respect to the longitudinal axisof the skateboard 200. In this way, the skateboard 200 reacts in asimilar way the front truck 212 turns upon the user leaning when thedrive unit 20, 320 is not attached to the skateboard 200 in normal use.As the user leans to the left, the skateboard 200 will lean to the leftslightly, but the wheels 308 will remain even and in contact with theground, urging the drive truck 306 to rotate slightly to the left,turning the skateboard 200. Similarly, as the user leans to the right,the skateboard 200 will lean to the right slightly, but the wheels 308will remain even and in contact with the ground, urging the drive truck306 to rotate slightly to the right, turning the skateboard 200.

Straps

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 300 includes straps 24.Straps 24 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and areconfigured to securely connect system 300 to skateboard 200. In thearrangement shown, as one example, straps 24 are nylon straps whichconnect via buckles 124. However, straps 24 may be formed of any othermaterial, such as polyester, plastic, polypropylene, or any othermaterial which is adjustable, pliable, and durable and can be used toattach system 300 to skateboard 200. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, straps 24 include buckles 124 at each end of straps 24. Buckles124 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and areconfigured to securely attach the two ends of straps 24. In multiplearrangements, buckles 124 may be a side release buckle, a cam buckle, orany other buckle or mechanism which can be used to securely connect thetwo ends of straps 24. In another arrangement, straps 24 may be elasticstraps that are able to be stretched over the deck 210 and trucks 212 ofthe skateboard 200.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, straps 24 extend around baseplate 318 of system 300, thereby effectively attaching to system 300. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, there are truck straps 128 anddeck straps 130. Truck straps 128 are configured to connect system 300so trucks 212 of skateboard 200, thereby securing system 10 in alongitudinal direction. Said another way, truck straps 128 wrap aroundfront truck 212 and rear truck 212 of skateboard 200 such that system300 is held securely and will not shift forward or rearward while system300 is connected to skateboard 200.

Similarly, in the arrangement shown, as one example, deck straps 130 areconfigured to connect system 300 to deck 210 of skateboard 200, therebysecuring system 300 in a lateral direction. Said another way, deckstraps 130 wrap tightly around deck 210 of skateboard 200 such thatsystem 300 is held securely and will not shift left or right whilesystem 300 is connected to skateboard 200. With truck straps 128 anddeck straps 130 wrapped around the trucks 212 and deck 210 of skateboard200, respectively, system 300 is securely and tightly connected toskateboard 200 and will not move side-to-side or forward and backwardwhile in use.

While straps 24 have been described according to the arrangement shown,as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatany other configuration of straps 24 may be used in order to facilitateconnection of system 300 to skateboard 200.

In Operation

System 300 may be operated by a user to travel distances easily andeffortlessly on a skateboard 200. First, a user provides a skateboard200, which will generally have a deck 210, a pair of trucks 212connected to the deck 210, and a pair of wheels 214 connected to each ofthe trucks 212. In this way, there is a front truck 212 with a pair offront wheels 214 and a rear truck 212 with a pair of rear wheels 214.The user can then attach system 300 to the skateboard 200.

In order to attach the system 300 to the skateboard 200, the user willtake straps 24 and wrap them around skateboard 200 to secure system 300to skateboard 200. Specifically, the user will take a truck strap 128,which is connected to system 300, and wrap it tightly around front truck212, Once truck strap 128 is wrapped appropriately around the fronttruck 212, the user will use buckles 124 to secure the ends of truckstrap 128 together, thereby securing system 300 to front truck 212. Theuser will then take a second truck strap 128, which is connected tosystem 300, and wrap it tightly around the rear truck 212. Once truckstrap 128 is wrapped appropriately around the rear truck 212, the userwill use buckles 124 to secure the ends of truck strap 128 together,thereby securing system 300 to rear truck 212. With truck straps 128around both the front truck 212 and the rear truck 212, system 300 isattached to skateboard 200 such that system 300 will not move forward orbackward while in use.

Next the user will take a first deck strap 130, which is connected tosystem 300, and wrap it tightly around deck 210 of skateboard 200. Oncedeck strap 130 is wrapped appropriately around the deck 210, the userwill use buckles 124 to secure the ends of deck strap 130 together,thereby securing system 300 to deck 210. The user will repeat thisprocess with additional deck straps 130 as needed. When completed, theuser will have attached system 300 to deck 210 such that system 300 willnot shift or slide side to side while in use. Importantly, deck straps130 are generally located such that they will not get in the way of theuser utilizing deck 210 for its intended purpose. That is, deck straps130 can be placed such that they will not interfere with the feetplacement of the user riding skateboard 200. In this way, system 300provides attachment of a powered system to a skateboard withoutinhibiting the user's ability to actually use the skateboard 200, andmore specifically the deck 210, as intended.

With the truck straps 128 and deck straps 130 wrapped securely aroundskateboard 200, system 300 is ready to be used to travel a distance. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, with system 300 connected toskateboard 200, the set of rear wheels 214 are resting on the ground, asare wheels 308 of system 300, but the front wheels 214 of skateboard 200are lifted off the ground due to the size and placement of wheels 308.Specifically, wheels 308 are located a behind front truck 212 andpositioned spaced apart but centered about the opposing left and rightsides 208 of skateboard 200. In this position, wheels 308 are closeenough to the set of front wheels 214 and wheels 308 have a large enoughdiameter that wheels 308 cause front wheels 214 to be lifted off theground.

In order to move, the user will utilize the remote controller 88 to sendcommands to control assembly 68 as described herein. Once controlassembly 68 received the command from remote controller 88 to moveforward, the control assembly will cause battery 62 to provideelectricity to hub motors 366. With electricity provided to hub motors366, hub motors 366 will begin to rotate, which will in turn rotatewheels 308. As wheels 308 rotate, the skateboard 200 is propelledforward. The user can use remote controller 88 to speed up or slow downthe rate of travel of skateboard 200. Because of the rotatable nature ofhanger 324, the user can travel in a straight direction and can alsocause skateboard 200 to turn. During slight turns, the front wheels 214of skateboard 200 will continue to stay off the ground, however if asharp turn is made by the user, the front wheels 214 of skateboard 200will make contact with the ground and provide additional support andstability during the turn.

Once the user reached their destination, the user can leave system 300on the skateboard 200, or the user can remove system 300 from skateboard200. The user can remove system 300 from the skateboard by unhookingbuckles 124 on each of the truck straps 128 and each of the deck straps130. The user will then unwrap the deck straps 130 from around deck 210and, likewise, unwrap the truck straps 128 from both the front truck 212and the rear truck 212. The user may desire to remove system 300 fromskateboard 200 if the user has used system 300 to travel to a skate parkand wants to skate and perform tricks using skateboard 200. In this way,system 300 can be used to travel distances, which still allowing theuser to utilize skateboard 200 for more recreational or sporting use.

From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the systemspresented herein improves upon the state of the art. Specifically, inone or more arrangements, a power system for skateboards is presentedwhich: improves upon the state of the art; is safe to operate; is easyto attach and detach from a skateboard; is relatively friendly to use;which can be attached and detached from a skateboard quickly andefficiently; is easy to operate; is relatively cost friendly tomanufacture; is relatively easy to transport; is aestheticallyappealing; is robust; is relatively inexpensive; is not easilysusceptible to wear and tear; has a long useful life; and/or isefficient to use and operate.

What is claimed:
 1. A power system for a skateboard, the skateboardhaving a deck, the skateboard having a pair of trucks, the pair oftrucks operably connected to the deck, the power system comprising: adrive unit; wherein the drive unit is configured to operably connect tothe skateboard by one or more straps; wherein when the drive unit isconnected to the skateboard, the drive unit is configured to providepowered movement to the skateboard.
 2. The system of claim 1, whereinthe one or more straps include a deck strap configured to wrap aroundthe deck of the skateboard.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the one ormore straps include a truck strap configured to wrap around at least oneof the pair of trucks.
 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising: thepair of trucks comprising a front truck and a rear truck; a first strapconnected to the drive unit and wherein the first strap is configured towrap around the deck of the skateboard; a second strap connected to thedrive unit and wherein the second strap is configured to wrap around thefront truck; a third strap connected to the drive unit and wherein thethird strap is configured to wrap around the rear truck.
 5. The systemof claim 1, further comprising a wheel assembly comprising a singlewheel, wherein the wheel assembly is operably connected to the driveunit.
 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a wheel assemblyhaving a single wheel; wherein the single wheel is curved such that theskateboard can turn; and wherein the wheel assembly is operablyconnected to the drive unit.
 7. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a wheel assembly having a single wheel; wherein the wheelassembly is operably connected to the drive unit; wherein a front truckof the pair of trucks has a set of front wheels; and wherein when thepower system is connected to the skateboard, the single wheel of thewheel assembly lifts the set of front wheels off the ground.
 8. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising: a wheel assembly; the wheelassembly having a single wheel; the wheel assembly having a wheelpulley; the wheel pulley operably connected to the single wheel; thedrive unit having a motor; the drive unit having a motor pulley; themotor pulley operably connected to the motor; wherein the motor pulleyis operably connected to the wheel pulley via a belt; and wherein whenthe motor is operated, the single wheel of the wheel assembly rotates,thereby causing movement of the skateboard.
 9. The system of claim 1,wherein the drive unit is powered by a battery disposed within a batteryhousing.
 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a base plate;the one or more straps operably connected to the base plate; a motoroperably connected to the base plate; and wherein the base plate isconfigured to be held within close and tight tolerances against a bottomsurface of the deck of the skateboard.
 11. The system of claim 1,further comprising: a base plate; the one or more straps operablyconnected to the base plate; a motor operably connected to the baseplate; the base plate having at least one compressible member on its topsurface; wherein the top surface of the base plate is configured to beheld within close and tight tolerances against a bottom surface of thedeck of the skateboard; and wherein the at least one compressible memberis formed of a material with a high coefficient of friction and isconfigured to securely hold the base plate in place.
 12. A power systemfor a skateboard, the skateboard having a deck, the skateboard having afront truck operably connected to the deck, the skateboard having a reartruck operably connected to the deck, the power system comprising: adrive unit; a set of straps connected to the drive unit; the set ofstraps including a first strap, a second strap, and a third strap;wherein the first strap is configured to wrap around the deck of theskateboard; wherein the second strap is configured to wrap around thefront truck of the skateboard; wherein the third strap is configured towrap around the rear truck of the skateboard; wherein when the driveunit is attached to the skateboard, the drive unit is configured toprovide powered movement to the skateboard.
 13. The system of claim 12,further comprising: a wheel assembly having a single wheel; and whereinthe wheel assembly is operably connected to the drive unit.
 14. Thesystem of claim 12, further comprising: a wheel assembly; the wheelassembly having a single wheel; wherein the single wheel is curved suchthat the skateboard can turn; and wherein the wheel assembly is operablyconnected to the drive unit.
 15. The system of claim 12, furthercomprising: a wheel assembly; the wheel assembly having a single wheel;wherein the wheel assembly is operably connected to the drive unit;wherein the front truck has a set of front wheels; and wherein when thepower system is connected to the skateboard, the single wheel of thewheel assembly lifts the set of front wheels off the ground.
 16. Thesystem of claim 12, further comprising: a wheel assembly; the wheelassembly having a single wheel; the wheel assembly having a wheelpulley; the wheel pulley operably connected to the single wheel; thedrive unit having a motor; the drive unit having a motor pulley; themotor pulley operably connected to the motor; wherein the motor pulleyis operably connected to the wheel pulley via a belt; and wherein whenthe motor is operated, the single wheel of the wheel assembly rotates,thereby causing movement of the skateboard.
 17. The system of claim 12,wherein the drive unit is powered by a battery contained in a batteryhousing.
 18. The system of claim 12, further comprising: a base plate;the set of straps operably connected to the base plate; a motor operablyconnected to the base plate; and wherein the base plate is configured tobe held within close and tight tolerances against a bottom surface ofthe deck of the skateboard.
 19. The system of claim 12, furthercomprising: a base plate; the set of straps operably connected to thebase plate; a motor operably connected to the base plate; the base platehaving at least one compressible member on its top surface; wherein thetop surface of the base plate is configured to be held within close andtight tolerances against a bottom surface of the deck of the skateboard;and wherein the at least one compressible member is formed of a materialwith a high coefficient of friction and is configured to securely holdthe base plate in place.
 20. A power system for a skateboard, theskateboard having a deck, the skateboard having a front truck operablyconnected to the deck, the front truck having a set of front wheels, theskateboard having a rear truck operably connected to the deck, the reartruck having a set of rear wheels, the power system comprising: a driveunit; a single wheel; the single wheel operably connected to the driveunit; wherein when the power system is operably connected to theskateboard, the single wheel lifts the set of front wheels off theground; wherein when the skateboard turns sharply, the front wheelscontact the ground which increases stability of the skateboard; andwherein when the drive unit is attached to the skateboard, the driveunit is configured to power the skateboard.
 21. The system of claim 20,wherein the drive unit is operably connected to the skateboard by a setof straps.
 22. The system of claim 20, further comprising: a first strapconnected to the drive unit and wherein the first strap is configured towrap around the deck of the skateboard; a second strap connected to thedrive unit and wherein the second strap is configured to wrap around thefront truck; a third strap connected to the drive unit and wherein thethird strap is configured to wrap around the rear truck.
 23. The systemof claim 20, wherein the single wheel is curved such that the skateboardcan turn.
 24. The system of claim 20, further comprising: a wheelassembly; the wheel assembly including the single wheel; the wheelassembly having a wheel pulley; the wheel pulley operably connected tothe single wheel; the drive unit having a motor; the drive unit having amotor pulley; the motor pulley operably connected to the motor; whereinthe motor pulley is operably connected to the wheel pulley via a belt;and wherein when the motor is operated, the single wheel of the wheelassembly rotates, thereby causing movement of the skateboard.
 25. Thesystem of claim 20, further comprising: a base plate; a set of strapsoperably connected to the base plate; a motor operably connected to thebase plate; the base plate having at least one compressible member onits top surface; wherein the top surface of the base plate is configuredto be held within close and tight tolerances against a bottom surface ofthe deck of the skateboard; and wherein the at least one compressiblemember is formed of a material with a high coefficient of friction andis configured to securely hold the base plate in place.
 26. A powersystem for a skateboard, the skateboard having a deck, the skateboardhaving a front truck operably connected to the deck, the skateboardhaving a rear truck operably connected to the deck, the power systemcomprising: a drive unit; at least one wheel assembly operably connectedto the drive unit; wherein the at least one wheel assembly is positionedbehind the front truck; wherein the at least one wheel assembly isconfigured to be centered about a first side of the skateboard and asecond side of the skateboard; wherein when the drive unit is attachedto the skateboard, the drive unit is configured to provide poweredmovement to the skateboard.
 27. The system of claim 26, wherein thedrive unit is operably connected to the skateboard via a set of straps.28. The system of claim 26, wherein the drive unit is operably connectedto the skateboard via a deck strap configured to wrap around the deck ofthe skateboard.
 29. The system of claim 26, wherein the drive unit isoperably connected to the skateboard via a truck strap configured towrap around the front truck.
 30. The system of claim 26, wherein thedrive unit is operably connected to the skateboard via a truck strapconfigured to wrap around the rear truck.
 31. The system of claim 26,further comprising: a first strap connected to the drive unit andwherein the first strap is configured to wrap around the deck of theskateboard; a second strap connected to the drive unit and wherein thesecond strap is configured to wrap around the front truck; and a thirdstrap connected to the drive unit and wherein the third strap isconfigured to wrap around the rear truck.
 32. The system of claim 26,wherein the drive unit is configured to allow the skateboard to turn.33. The system of claim 26, wherein the at least one wheel assembly is afirst wheel assembly, and further comprising: a second wheel assemblyoperably coupled to the drive unit and wherein the second wheel assemblyis coaxial with the first wheel assembly; wherein the front truck has aset of front wheels; and wherein when the power system is connected tothe skateboard, the first and second wheel assemblies lifts the set offront wheels off the ground.
 34. The system of claim 26, wherein the atleast one wheel assembly is a first wheel assembly, and furthercomprising: a second wheel assembly operably coupled to the drive unitand wherein the second wheel assembly is coaxial with the first wheelassembly; wherein the drive unit further comprises a drive truckrotatably coupled to a base plate of the drive unit and wherein thefirst and second wheel assemblies are coupled to first and second endsof the drive truck; wherein the drive truck is configured to rotate whena deck of the skateboard leans such that the skateboard turns with theskateboard lean.
 35. The system of claim 26, wherein the drive unit ispowered by a battery contained in a battery housing.
 36. The system ofclaim 26, further comprising: a base plate; a set of straps operablyconnected to the base plate; the base plate having at least onecompressible member on its top surface; wherein the top surface of thebase plate is configured to be held within close and tight tolerancesagainst a bottom surface of the deck of the skateboard; and wherein theat least one compressible member is formed of a material with a highcoefficient of friction and is configured to securely hold the baseplate in place.